EPHESIANS 5:15

“So then, be careful how you walk, not as unwise people but as wise,”

Long gone are my days of reckless abandon, jumping across creeks, running through the woods and walking recklessly down steep hills. I can’t feel my feet that well anymore since I developed neuropathy from my chemotherapy a few years ago. I have to watch each step I take. I can’t rely on feel. I have to be able to see where I am stepping or leaping or jumping. One misstep and I could break an ankle or leg.

The Greek text gives a clearer emphasis of what Paul is writing in today’s verse. It literally reads, “Take heed, therefore, carefully how you walk…” The first word is blépō, which according to HELPS Word studies, means this, “properly, to see, be observant (watchful). Blépō suggests ‘to see something physical, with spiritual results (perception).’ That is, it carries what is seen into the non-physical (immaterial) realm so a person can take the needed action (respond, beware, be alert).” Then we see the Greek word translated “carefully.” This word refers to having the highest degree of accuracy. These two words together give a much clearer image than just “be careful.” Paul is telling us to look closely and carefully and apply what we see.

APPLICATION

That advice can be applied in many areas of our life, but especially our spiritual walk. How many times have you and I taken a wrong step spiritually? Too many to count! In Mark 8:15, we see blepo used when Jesus refers to the leaven of the Pharisees. “And He was giving orders to them, saying, “Watch out! Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and the leaven of Herod.’” Look carefully for those things that want to deceive you.

In Philippians 3:2, Paul uses blepo three times to give us warning. “Beware of the dogs, beware of the evil workers, beware of the false circumcision;” Warning signs! Danger ahead! Take caution! Guard yourself! In each example of this word blepo I have given you, it is in the Present Imperative Active which means it’s a command that is to be continuously followed. You can’t afford to take a day off.

I am reminded of the death of King Ahab of Israel. Remember? Let me remind you from 1 Kings 22:34. “Now one man drew his bow at random and struck the king of Israel in a joint of the armor. So he said to the driver of his chariot, ‘Turn around and take me out of the battle, for I am severely wounded.’” He had disguised himself and even brought in a “body double,” King Jehoshaphat of Judah, to throw off the enemy’s attack on him. But he was still struck by an arrow and died. You cannot disguise yourself enough to hide from the enemy’s arrows aimed at you. You must guard your heart daily with His Word and His Spirit. Beware!

Father, thank You that You are constantly guarding me. Keep me alert and aware of the devil’s schemes.